Government extends operational lifespan of large combustion plants until 31 December 2028

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has amended the National Emission Reduction Plan for Large Combustion Plants, thereby extending the operational period of such energy facilities. The decision was taken in order to align national legislation with Ukraine’s international obligations as a member of the Energy Community and to ensure sufficient generating capacity amid russia’s ongoing energy terrorism and the need to build necessary reserves.

Implementation of the NERP was intended as a transitional stage towards full compliance with Ukraine’s European integration commitments on reducing and preventing industrial pollution and introducing European standards and requirements for the operation of large combustion plants. Under these commitments – in particular the implementation of Directive 2010/75/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on industrial emissions – a number of large combustion plants in Ukraine were due to cease operation by the end of this year.

However, taking into account the critical importance of strengthening Ukraine’s energy security in the face of continual russian attacks, on 18 December the Ministerial Council of the Energy Community considered a request from the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine and approved the corresponding derogations for Ukraine. The Energy Community has permitted Ukraine to continue operating the large combustion plants included in the NERP for the duration of martial law, but no later than 31 December 2028.

This decision will therefore help ensure the reliability of the power system’s balance and uninterrupted production of electricity and heat for critical and social infrastructure facilities, particularly during the heating season and amid continuing enemy attacks on energy infrastructure. It enables operators of large combustion plants to avoid the premature shutdown of individual power units at thermal power stations and combined heat and power plants, while also positively affecting the market environment, the adequacy of generating capacity, and the strengthening of the country’s energy security.